On Thursday, February 14, 2025, all commercial air traffic in Belgium will come to a standstill due to a nationwide strike by air traffic controllers. The strike begins at 6:45 a.m. and ends at 22:15 p.m. All flights flying below 7.500 meters at Brussels, Charleroi, Liège, Antwerp and Ostend airports are affected. The reason for the strike is a protest against the Belgian government's planned reforms, particularly in the area of public services, such as pension reform.
This strike follows a previous industrial action on Monday, in which all departures from Brussels and Charleroi airports were cancelled due to protests by baggage and security staff. The ACV Transcom union has also joined the strike. The strike affects not only air traffic, but also the public sector, which is protesting against cuts in social and working conditions.
Rescue and medical flights are excluded from the strike measures and can operate as usual. Travelers affected by the strikes should contact the respective airlines or airports early to find out about possible changes.